Kenya and Saudi Arabia Deepen Military Ties at World Defence Show 2026

Kenya and Saudi Arabia have agreed to accelerate defence cooperation following high-level talks between their senior military leaders at the World Defence Show 2026 in Riyadh.

General Charles Kahariri, Kenya’s Chief of the Defence Forces, met General Fayyad Bin Hamed Al-Ruwaili, Chairman of the Saudi Armed Forces General Staff, to reaffirm their commitment to implementing the existing Defence Cooperation Agreement. The discussions centred on expanding defence industry collaboration, increasing technology transfer, and strengthening intelligence sharing to address common security concerns.

The World Defence Show, opened by Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, brought together military officials and defence companies to present new technologies across land, air, sea, space and cyber operations. During his visit, General Kahariri toured several pavilions, including that of the International Military Counter Terrorism Coalition, where he recognised Saudi Arabia’s support for Kenya’s counter-terrorism training programmes.

Kenya’s participation in the event comes amid continued modernisation of its armed forces. The country recently acquired the Israeli-made SPYDER air defence system at a cost of about KSh 3.4 billion. The system is designed to counter aerial and maritime threats. Kenya has also procured unmanned aerial vehicles from Denmark to strengthen surveillance and counter-drone capabilities.

In addition, a KSh 9.1 billion project with the United States is under way to expand the Kenya Navy Base at Manda Bay. The development includes the construction of a 10,000-foot runway capable of accommodating heavy military aircraft.

The Kenya Air Force has expanded its fleet with MD530F Cayuse Warrior helicopters and C-27J Spartan transport aircraft. It has also upgraded its aerial surveillance systems. 

These measures form part of a broader strategy that incorporates artificial intelligence and enhanced cyber defence capabilities in response to evolving security threats. The establishment of the National Defence University–Kenya reflects efforts to strengthen strategic planning and operational readiness. 

Through closer ties with Saudi Arabia and other international partners, Kenya is seeking to reinforce its defence capabilities and deepen structured cooperation, particularly in intelligence sharing and joint technological development.